Strength training is an important part of an overall plan for health and fitness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strength training can help reduce the signs and symptoms of arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, depression and back pain.1 The CDC notes that strength training - the use of resistance to build the size, strength, and anaerobic endurance of your skeletal muscles - is safe and effective for people of all ages and people with existing health conditions often benefit most from engaging in several strength training sessions per week along with daily stretching exercises.